Parts for your 1991 Nissan Primera-Strut mounts

1991 Nissan Primera strut-mounts — what they do and when to sort them

Strut-mounts are absolutely relevant to the 1991 Nissan Primera (P10). Technical sources confirm the front suspension is a parallel link MacPherson-style design that uses a top insulator and bearing assembly at the strut tower. The Nissan factory service manual for the P10 (Front Axle & Suspension section) identifies the “strut mounting insulator” and a separate thrust bearing for steering rotation. Independent data such as Haynes coverage for the Primera (1990s models) and major parts catalogues from OE-equivalent suppliers also list front strut-mounts and bearings for the P10. By contrast, the rear of the P10 uses a multi-link beam with separate shock absorbers, so rear strut-mounts aren’t a thing on this car—only shock top bushes/mounts.

Up front, the strut-mounts secure the top of the strut to the body, isolate noise and vibration, and (via the built-in bearing) let the strut turn smoothly with the steering. When healthy, they help the Primera track straight, steer cleanly, and keep tyre wear tidy.

• Common signs of wear include clunks over bumps, a knock when turning the wheel, creaks at parking speeds, notchy or “memory” steering, vague handling, and feathered or uneven tyre wear.
• Visible cracking, collapsed rubber, or rusty, torn bearing races are red flags during inspection.

Replacement is straightforward workshop fare and best done in pairs along with related wear items.

• Combine new strut-mounts with fresh bearings, dust boots and bump stops, assess springs and struts at the same time.
• Use a proper spring compressor and observe mount/bearing orientation marks, torque to spec, ideally with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid bushing preload.
• A four-wheel alignment is recommended afterward, as geometry can shift when mounts settle.
• Quality components (OE or reputable brands) maintain steering feel and cabin refinement.
• Inspection every service or 10,000–15,000 km suits Aussie and Kiwi conditions, many last 100,000–200,000 km depending on roads and loads.

Owners who keep the Primera’s front strut-mounts in good nick enjoy quieter running, crisper steering, and tyres that wear evenly—simple maintenance that pays off on every commute.

Do the rear suspension on 1991 Primeras have strut-mounts?

No. The P10’s rear uses a multi-link beam with separate shock absorbers. That means rear shock top mounts/bushes are used, not strut-mounts. Front corners are where the strut-mounts live.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing front strut-mounts?

Yes. Even if the struts weren’t fully disturbed, fresh mounts can change ride height and geometry slightly. A four-wheel alignment keeps steering true and protects tyre life.

What labour time is typical for front strut-mounts on a P10?

Expect roughly 1.5–3.0 hours per side depending on tooling, corrosion, and whether struts, springs, and ancillary parts are being renewed at the same time.